What is a NIE and how do I get one?

The NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) is your foreigner identification number in Spain — and you’ll need it for nearly everything official or financial: opening a bank account, signing a rental contract, buying property, paying taxes, setting up utilities.

You apply with form EX-15, either at a Spanish consulate before you move or at an extranjería office or police station once you’re in Spain. It’s a number, not a residence permit — long-stay movers will still complete their residence card separately — but getting the NIE early removes a blocker from a surprising number of later steps.